These extracts were compared with a commercially available wheatgrass tablet.

The scientists found antioxidant levels were:

1. Highest at the end of the growing period (15 days).2. Up to 250% higher in alcohol-extracted solutions compared with freshly juiced wheatgrass.3. Highest
in soil with nutrients.4. Higher thanmany natural extracts and vegetables.5. Significantly lower in the wheatgrass tablet compared with both fresh juice and alcohol-extracted solutions.

Wheat Grass Juice May Improve Hematological Toxicity Related to Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients: A Pilot StudyBar-Selaa G., Medy T., Getta F., Goldberg
H. 2007. J. Nutr. Cancer, 58:1;43-48Myelotoxicity induced by chemotherapy may become life-threatening. Neutropenia may be prevented by granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (GCSF), and epoetin may prevent anemia, but both cause substantial side effects and increased costs. According to non-established data, wheat grass juice (WGJ) may prevent myelotoxicity when applied with chemotherapy. In this prospective matched control study, 60 patients with
breast carcinoma on chemotherapy were enrolled and assigned to an intervention or control arm. Those in the intervention arm (A) were given 60 cc of WGJ orally daily during the first three cycles of chemotherapy, while those in the control arm (B) received only regular supportive therapy. Premature termination of treatment, dose reduction, and starting GCSF or epoetin were considered as “censoring events.” Response rate to chemotherapy was calculated
in patients with evaluable disease. Analysis of the results showed that five censoring events occurred in Arm A and 15 in Arm B (P = 0.01). Of the 15 events in Arm B, 11 were related to hematological events. No reduction in response rate was observed in patients who could be assessed for response. Side effects related to WGJ were minimal, including worsening of nausea in six patients, causing cessation of WGJ intake. In conclusion, it was found that WGJ
taken during FAC chemotherapy may reduce myelotoxicity, dose reductions, and need for GCSF support, without diminishing efficacy of chemotherapy. These preliminary results need confirmation in a phase III study.

The effects of acute radiation skin toxicity (ARST) that are seen in most patients undergoing breast irradiation vary in nature and degree, but often include severely painful and unsightly lesions, sometimes necessitating the termination of treatment. Few satisfactory
results have been achieved in the many endeavors to treat these lesions. However, recently, wheatgrass extract, (DrWheatgrass Skin Recovery Cream) a topical anti-inflammatory immunomodulator, substance P inhibitor, topical hemostatic agent, and stimulant of fibroblastic activity with a wide range of healing properties, has been attracting attention. It is also inexpensive.

A pilot study conducted at Charles Sturt University, NSW, Australia,
as a prospective randomized, blinded, controlled trial to determine whether wheatgrass extract applied before and during radiation therapy (max. primary site dose, 50 Gy) for mammary carcinoma would protect the skin of the breast sufficiently to reduce morbidity and improve tolerance. In the treatment modification group, wheatgrass extract was employed, while current best practice (sorbolene cream) was used for the controls), but patients were blinded as
to their treatment group.

ARST is known to be associated with patient weight and breast size, and this tendency was reflected in the two groups in this study, the wheatgrass group being greater in both measures. In the wheatgrass group, a statistically significant delay was achieved regarding the severity of ARST; there was also some significant improvement in QOL. Both of these differences are important in cases where patient compliance is
threatened. The findings point to a potential role of wheatgrass extract in the management of this distressing condition.

Identification of pelvic lymph nodes with chlorophyllin after injection into the uterine cervix: An experimental and clinical study.

Wang H., Tan Y., Wang X., Xie J. Lymphology 2000;34:69-76

First, the effects of chlorophyllin dye were tested in normal dogs by injecting their uteri with 0.3% sodium copper chlorophyllin, and the resulting dye concentrations in the
bloodstream, determined spectrophotometrically, peaked after 4 hours and were almost undetectable at 18 hours, while dye persisted for at least 4 days in macrophages detected light- and electron-microscopically in stained retroperitoneal lymph nodes. In the excised lymph nodes, however, no morphological changes were seen.

Then, 24 cervical, and 20 endometrial, carcinoma patients undergoing both radical hysterectomy and lymphadenectomy were divided
into a lymphatic colouration group of 23 patients and a lymphatic non-coloration (control) group of 21 patients; and 0.3% chlorophyllin was injected into the cervices of the former 5 days before elective lymphadenectomy. No complications were attributed to these injections. Thanks to the dye accumulation in the colouration group lymph nodes, significantly more of them than of control group lymph nodes could be identified, and their dissection took less
time.

The use of chlorophyllin thus appeared to offer three benefits: (1) It is safe; (2) It facilitates lymph node identification and consequently, excision; and (3) It shortens operation times (see comment below) in patients undergoing radical hysterectomy with lymphadenectomy.

Dr. Chris' comment:

One wonders if, given the potent hemostatic effect of Chlorophyllin, which contains a cereal grass extract, that operating
time may also have been shortened because of reduced bleeding at the operation site. One frequently sees this in clinical practice where wheatgrass, because it effectively reduces or stops small vessel bleeding so effectively, that adrenaline is often not required for vasoconstriction.

METHODS: Fifteen female RA (Steinbrocker II-III) patients, who had unsuccessfully tried two different DMARD treatments, were enrolled in an open-label, 1-year long, pilot clinical study. DMARD and steroid therapies were recorded and continued. All patients received Avemar as additional therapy. For measurement of efficacy the Ritchie Index, the
Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and the assessment of morning stiffness were applied. Patients were evaluated at baseline, 6 and 12 months. For statistical analyses the Wilcoxon test was used.

RESULTS: At both 6 and 12 months, Ritchie index, HAQ and morning stiffness showed significant improvements compared with the baseline values. Dosages of steroids could be reduced in about half of the patients. No side effects of Avemar were observed.

CONCLUSION:
Supplementation of standard therapies with a continuous administration of Avemar is beneficial for RA patients.

PURPOSE: An open-label, matched-pair (by diagnosis, stage of disease, age, and
gender) pilot clinical trial was conducted to test whether the combined administration of the medical nutriment MSC (Avemar) with cytotoxic drugs and the continued administration of MSC on its own help to reduce the incidence of treatment-related febrile neutropenia in children with solid cancers compared with the same treatments without MSC.

METHODS: Between December 1998 and May 2002, 22 patients (11 pairs) were enrolled in this study. At
baseline, the staging of the tumors was the same in each pair (mostly pTNM = T2N0M0), with the exception of two cases in which patients in the MSC group had worse prognoses (metastasis at baseline). There were no significant differences in the average age of the patients, the length of treatment time (MSC) or follow-up, the number of patients with central venous catheters, the number of chemotherapy cycles, the frequency of preventive counterneutropenic
interventions, or the type and dosage of antibiotic and antipyretic therapy used in the two groups.

RESULTS: During the treatment (follow-up) period, there was no progression of the malignant disease, whereas at end-point the number and frequency of febrile neutropenic events significantly differed between the two groups: 30 febrile neutropenic episodes (24.8%) in the MSC group versus 46 (43.4%) in the control group (Wilcoxon signed rank test, P
< 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: The continuous supplementation of anticancer therapies with the medical nutriment MSC helps to reduce the incidence of treatment-related febrile neutropenia in children with solid cancers.Original publication (pdf)Reproduced by kind permission of Biropharma Kft.

OBJECTIVE: The fermented Wheatgrass extract (FWGE) nutraceutical (Avemar), manufactured under "good
manufacturing practice" conditions and, fulfilling the self-affirmed "generally recognized as safe" status in the United States, has been approved as a "dietary food for special medical purposes for cancer patients" in Europe. In this paper, we report the adjuvant use of this nutraceutical in the treatment of high-risk skin melanoma patients.

METHODS: In a randomized, pilot, phase II clinical trial, the efficacy of
dacarbazine (DTIC)-based adjuvant chemotherapy on survival parameters of melanoma patients was compared to that of the same treatment supplemented with a 1-year long administration of FWGE.

This paper cites case studies of some of the many treatments for infectious allergic diseases of the skin. All of these (even penicillin) have proved to cause untoward--and some, even
fatal--side effects, either immediately or after an interval. The causes of those effects vary greatly.

An important therapeutic agent mentioned is chlorophyll. It stimulates cell metabolism in the host, resulting in natural repair of damaged tissues. It rapidly suppresses the malodour of wounds that have festered. It is almost completely non-toxic, however administered, and offers a very soothing and bland treatment of the skin, whether for
purulent skin infections, burns, or ulcerative and allergic skin conditions. In all or most of the cases treated with chlorophyll (depending on the nature of the skin disease being treated), improvement or healing was partial or complete.

In addition, chlorophyll is described as probably having “the most constant and decided effect” of the substances examined as a stimulant of cell multiplication and tissue repair. Indeed, the green parts of
plants have been used in older, indigenous cultures such as those of the Hawaiians and the native Americans.

Another preparation, nitrofurazone, however, also demonstrated impressive effectiveness on a wide range of skin conditions.

Chlorophyll: A preliminary report of its use in two cases of second and third degree burns.

Haughton, H. 1950. Med.J.Aust. 337-340.

Case 1. A man suffered extensive 2nd and 3rd degree burns to his face and upper body after falling into a fire. Conventional treatment plus penicillin was used. Four days later his condition improved although his eyes exuded pus. A week
later the burns were discharging pus and were malodorous and no healing was apparent.

Two weeks after the accident the burns were debrided and the surface covered with chlorophyll-soaked gauze. The following day, malodour had improved and extensive new skin and tissue had formed over the wounds so that the dressings could be removed.

After 4 days, much of the neck and face had healed, and even allowed shaving. There was no scarring, and
almost no contraction or stiffening of the skin, but one eyelid required some surgical treatment. Healing was complete about a month and a half after the accident and a month after the first chlorophyll dressing. It is unusual for severe burns to heal so quickly.

Case 2. A young man spilt boiling water into his boot, causing 2nd-degree scalding of his calf. The wound was cleaned carefully, and a
5% chlorophyll pack was applied. Two days later, the wound was already dry, and healing had already taken place over most of the area. A soft, non-adhesive antiseptic dressing was then applied to the healed portion, while a chlorophyll dressing was used to cover the unhealed parts. A week after the accident, only a protective dressing was needed. Thus, a mere 7 days were required for healing. Scar tissue was minimal and the skin’s appearance subsequently
returned to normal.

Conclusions:1.The rate of healing when chlorophyll is used is so rapid that its inclusion in the armamentarium of burns treatment is suggested.2. Chlorophyll completely supersedes the sulphonamide compounds as a primary dressing for clean and potentially infected wounds.3. Chlorophyll is a powerful deodorant.

Dr. Chris comments:I have little doubt that
chlorophyll plays virtually no part in the healing process in humans or animals. There is something else responsible for rapid healing phenomena that are frequently seen to occur when using wheatgrass and other cereal grasses.

Chlorophyll is generally regarded as a photosynthetic pigment present in green plants. This
article reviews the anti-inflammatory, wound healing and malodour reducing properties of chlorophyll.

In a study on embryonic hearts in mice, it was noted that growth occurred at a faster rate when chlorophyllin was introduced into the heart cells. In other animal experiments, wounds treated with chlorophyll derivatives healed faster when compared to other agents. Chlorophyll acted on different aspects of wound healing and resulted in faster
healing. Furthermore, chlorophyll derivatives had an antibacterial effect considered beneficial in wounds that tend to get re-infected.

Another animal study reported that chlorophyll enhanced the formation of blood cells in anemic animals. A 70-83% increase in the number of red blood cells and haemoglobin concentration was noted within 10-16 days of regular administration of chlorophyll derivatives. Induction of the formation of other blood cells
was also noted.

Significantly, none of these studies reported any signs of toxicity from administration of chlorophyll derivatives even over a prolonged period of time.

Clinical investigations of the uses of chlorophyll derivatives actively started in the US in 1940. Numerous chlorophyll derivatives including chlorophyll copper complex (CCC) were used in the form of ointments and solutions to promote healing of wounds at various hospitals.
Remarkable improvement was noted in the wound healing process, even in wounds that did not respond to other therapies. In more than 400 cases of suppurative disease, CCC stimulated granulation tissue and epithelialisation better then other agents. Chronic refractory skin ulcers were also treated successfully. In addition, the itching and burning sensation generally associated with most skin wounds and burns was also significantly reduced. Chlorophyll
derivatives were successful in resolving numerous skin disorders, burns and even gum diseases.

Both local application and oral consumption of chlorophyll derivatives significantly reduced the malodour associated with colostomy. There were no reports of toxicity.

Although the exact mechanism of action of chlorophyll is not known, it is thought to exert its action via:1. stimulation of protein synthesis2. antimicrobial effects3.
neutralising effects on wound-healing retarding compounds in exudate4. tight binding of microbial indolic compounds.

Other clinical studies have shown positive results using chlorophyll derivatives for treating pancreatitis, cancer and psoriasis. Further research is required to prove these beneficial effects on a larger scale.

The introduction of anti-inflammatory steroids and antimicrobial drugs during the 1940s overshadowed the
therapeutic effects of chlorophyll. However, management of slow healing wounds with these agents remains a time consuming and expensive process. Further studies are required to explore the therapeutic potential of chlorophyll.

Chlorophyllin intervention reduces aflatoxin-DNA adducts in individuals at high risk for liver cancer (Qidong , China). Egner, P. et al. 2001. Proc.
Nat. Acad. Sci. 2001; 98:14601-14606Residents of the area are at risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer) partly as a result of ingesting aflatoxin. Chlorophyllin was shown to be an inhibitor of aflatoxin carcinogenesis in animals, so this trial was carried out with 180 adult patients. Levels of aflatoxin-guanine in urine (associated with increased risk of liver cancer) were found to decrease 55% over a four month period in comparison
to placebo. No adverse events were reported.

First, let me apologize for its taking so long to get a response to this question - none of the volunteers were able to find an answer, and what research I did turned up little.

To
start with, let's tackle the easy parts of the question. 1) Although both chlorophyll and heme contain porphyrin, each also contains side chains that vary substantially. Beside not being able to properly coordinate a ferrous ion, chlorphyll's tail would prevent its being taken up by the hemoglobin proteins to form a functional enzyme. 2) Once heme is degraded in the liver into biliverdin, it can't be converted back to heme. Once heme degradation begins,
the byproducts are expelled in the bile and urine. 3) The heme in the blood is contained in the Red Blood Cells. These cells, also called Erythrocytes, arise in the bone marrow from Reticulocytes which synthesize the porphyrin rings needed to make heme from simple precursors. In other words, any prophyrins, including functional heme, absorbed in the intestines and into the blood stream would be degraded in the liver and not used for hemoglobin.

Now
for the tricky question, "how chlorophyll is absorbed through the intestinal walls." The short answer is: it's not. The evidence is somewhat indirect, but suggests that chlorophyll accumulates in the gut, and is either expelled with the rest of the waste or broken down by the intestinal flora. Examinations in cattle have demonstrated a correlation between intestinal chlorophyll content and microbial activity, which can be affected by compounds
found in certain grasses. Also, some enzymes found in food plants, e.g. lutein from soybeans, actually destroy chlorophyll before it gets to the small intestines. Although these data are from cattle and not humans, their more herbivorous diets expose them to much more chlorophyll than a normal human diet - it is doubtful that our omnivorous diets are better at dealing with chlorophyll than theirs. Although there is some evidence that heme may facilitate
Iron absorption in humans, it is worth repeating that any heme absorbed in the gut would be degraded by the liver before entering the general circulation, and that heme and chlorophyll are not interchangeable.

As an aside, the presence of chlorophyll in the human diet has been shown to have beneficial effects, specifically because it is not absorbed. Experiments using Chlorophyllin (CHL), a solubilized form of chlorophyll, have demonstrated that
chlorophyll can help to prevent liver and colon cancers by binding carcinogens commonly associated with these cancers and preventing their absorption by the intestines. So, eating foods containing a lot chlorophyll should be part of a healthy diet, but not because the chlorophyll somehow alleviates anemia.

I wish to report some evidence that may have an important bearing on the treatment of beta-thalassemia (thalassemia major, Cooley's anemia, Mediterranean anemia) and sickle cell disease. A wheatgrass extract I use frequently in clinical practice may well have the potential to improve the quality of life of many sufferers of this debilitating, often
life-threatening disorder. There is both clinical evidence and some state-of-the-art science that supports this finding.Thalassemia major is an inherited disorder of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that binds oxygen and transports it around the body. Just one gene determines whether or not a child will have the disorder or is simply a carrier of the abnormal gene. The disorder affects children of mainly South-East Asian (eg. 600,000 cases in
Thailand), Indian, Mediterranean and Central African origin. Patients can suffer from an enlarged liver and spleen, heart failure, growth retardation, endocrine disorders and various other symptoms. Current treatment for thalassemics includes regular blood transfusion, chelating or iron-removing drugs, and drugs that induce the production of fetal hemoglobin such as hydroxyurea. Without adequate support and management, the disease can be fatal.Wheatgrass
and other cereal grasses have been thoroughly researched and reported as a therapeutically effective substance since the 1930's. Traditionally, chlorophyll, or its synthetic derivative, chlorophyllin, has been implicated as the biological active responsible for reported healing effects. A number of animal studies have shown quite marked improvement in anemia following chlorophyll ingestion. (1,2,3). Other studies up to the present day have shown positive
results in the treatment of suppurating wounds(4), burns(5), liver cancer(6), ulcerative colitis(7) and many other conditions. My own experiences in treating numerous patients with a wheatgrass extract since 1995, although anecdotal, strongly support many of these research findings. I am almost certain however that neither chlorophyll nor chlorophyllin is the therapeutic agent responsible.In my February, 2004, I mentioned a clinical pilot study carried
out by Dr. R. K. Marwaha et al at the Advanced Pediatric Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India. Entitled "Wheat grass juice reduces transfusion requirement in patients with thalassemia major: a pilot study.", the study was performed between February 2000 and May 2003. Sixteen out of 38 (42%) blood transfusion dependent
thalassemics fulfilled the trial criteria for final analysis.To summarise the findings during period of wheatgrass juice ingestion:

·overall, hemoglobin levels were not compromised by reduced transfusion volumes

Dr. Marwaha's conclusion was that "wheat grass juice has the potential to lower transfusion requirements in thalassemics."
He was not prepared to speculate on the "mechanism of action of wheat grass juice in transfusion dependent thalassemics" being of the opinion that the concept of chlorophyll enhancing hemoglobin production "sounds too simplistic". I support his position and seriously doubt whether chlorophyll has any function other than to drive photosynthesis. (See "Chlorophyll - Healer or Humbug"). Add to this the fact that
my wheatgrass extract is clinically effective in most, if not all the areas described in the substantial literature about wheatgrass healing - but contains barely detectable amounts of chlorophyll.

It is interesting to note that twenty of the original trial participants were withdrawn due to "indiscipline in intake and an insufficient duration of intake of wheat grass juice." This does not surprise me
considering they were asked to consume 100mls per day. Many find fresh wheatgrass juice unpalatable, as I do. Some of these children were as young as four and, unless they really enjoyed the taste, would have found it very difficult to comply with the regime. They would I believe, have found it much easier to ingest a dilute solution of my extract.

I contacted Dr. Marwaha, mentioning the extract and wheatgrass website. At the time it did not seem
likely he would want to repeat or extend the pilot study using the extract, so I did not suggest it. Nonetheless, because of the substantial clinical experience I have had using wheatgrass as a therapeutic agent and the extensive scientific literature available on the topic, I felt quite certain that it would work just as well as fresh wheatgrass juice. More importantly, the extract is infinitely more palatable and the dose required would amount to no
more than 1 to 3 mls. a day. Also, wheatgrass cultivation is unnecessary as the extract's potency lasts for years, if not indefinitely. The next development was totally unexpected.

The Murdoch Children's Research Institute at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne (Australia) is involved in a number of research projects, one of which is thalassemia. This unit, the Cell & Gene Therapy Research Group is headed by Professor Panos
Ioannou who has spent a large part of his working life researching thalassemia. Also, because of his work in the production of artificial chromosomes, he made a significant contribution to the Human Genome Project. On 3rd May he requested a sample of wheatgrass extract saying, "We have recently developed very specific assays for the induction of foetal haemoglobin, ("The assay is based on detecting production of HbF in human
erythroleukaemia cells using a fluorescent protein gene that is used to replace the genes for HbF") to facilitate the discovery of pharmacological agents that might be therapeutic for thalassaemia. Given the reported effects of wheatgrass juice on thalassaemia, (Dr. Marwaha's pilot study) we would very much like to test wheatgrass juice (extract) whether it can cause a significant increase in foetal haemoglobin."

This
point is important. Fetal hemoglobin, (HbF) which has a substantially higher affinity for oxygen than adult hemoglobin, develops in the fetus during the last six months of gestation. As both mother and fetus share the same blood supply, fetal hemoglobin essentially draws off oxygen from the mother's blood. This enables the fetus to survive in the uterus. After birth, fetal hemoglobin levels fall rapidly and in the adult represents less than two percent of
total hemoglobin in the body. It has been found that stimulation or induction of fetal hemoglobin in thalassemia can improve the patient's clinical condition. Although drugs exist that have this function, e.g. hydroxyurea, they lack specificity and may have a variety of serious side effects. Professor Ioannou assayed the wheatgrass extract for fetal hemoglobin induction on three separate human cell clones. On 14 July he reported that over a 5 day
period:

"Our measurements suggest a 3-5 fold increase in the production of HbF by the wheat grass extract. This is a substantial increase and could certainly provide an explanation why some thalassaemia patients may derive significant benefit."

Of course, these laboratory results may or may not bear a relationship to what one could expect in the thalassemic patient. However, given the quite significant
reduction in transfusion requirements noted in some of the patients in Dr. Marwaha's pilot study, Professor Ioannou's findings strongly suggest they could have resulted from induction of fetal hemoglobin by wheatgrass.

I think it is worth noting again that the Murdoch Institute results were achieved using a wheatgrass extract that contained virtually no chlorophyll. This fact further supports my belief that chlorophyll, like
hemoglobin, has a specific function to perform in nature. As hemoglobin transports oxygen within the red blood cell, so does chlorophyll assist photosynthesis within the chloroplast. Nothing more, nothing less.

In conclusion, I believe the two new studies relating to wheatgrass and induction of fetal hemoglobin mentioned here give more than a glimmer of hope to thalassemic patients. Commercial wheatgrass products such as fresh juice, tablets,
powders and nutritional supplements are cheap, readily available and virtually devoid of adverse effects. While more studies are clearly necessary, thalassemics may have nothing to lose and possibly much to gain from ingesting wheatgrass, in one form or another, daily. While it is not possible from the current studies to predict the optimal dose of wheatgrass extract for a beneficial effect on thalassaemia, I recommend that in order to benefit fully from
the biological activity of the herb, thalassemics, like anyone taking wheatgrass, need to hold it in the mouth for at least a minute before swallowing.

Hello again everyone, and thanks again for your valuable queries, suggestions and comments. As I've mentioned before, any kind of feedback (and it doesn't have to be positive, although it feels nicer) is invaluable because it helps me to build a more composite overview of what wheatgrass can do therapeutically. I can then pass that information on to anyone who is
interested enough to know more. I receive an ever-growing number of emails from all round the world from people who are often desperate for anything that might help their ailment or condition. Usually they have tried most of the regular pharmaceutical products on offer and have been disappointed because of adverse side effects, cost, the need to see their doctor for a repeat prescription or because they simply don't work. Before I began writing this
newsletter, I had no idea that the demand for some "alternative" remedial treatment was so enormous. Suffice to say, I'm getting swamped with enquiries as to whether wheatgrass is likely to help or not in a very broad range of medical conditions. I have a feeling that this is only the tip of the iceberg. From time to time I attend various expos to answer questions about wheatgrass therapy and, although I enjoy it immensely, it is hard work. A day
at an expo is like a week in the office!

Speaking of feedback, I just came across this very interesting and, for me, exciting news item on the internet.

From: The Straits Times February 18, 2004

India develops wheatgrass treatment for blood disease

CHANDIGARH (India) - A medical research institute in India has developed a technique using wheatgrass juice to treat patients suffering from the painful blood disease thalassaemia, a doctor said on Thursday.

'Three years ago we came
across a thalassaemic child whose transfusion requirement was on the decline,' said Dr R.K. Marwaha, head of the haematology-oncology division of the Institute of Medicine and Research.'We were surprised and asked his parents about his diet and found he was drinking wheat grass juice every day. We decided to start therapy trials.'

He said the trials are being conducted on 16 children by orally administering them 100ml of the juice every day.

'The
result is a great success. The frequency of blood transfusion from once in a fortnight has gone down to once in three months and the blood requirement of 50 per cent of the children has decreased by 25 per cent.''Their haemoglobin count has also remained above the normal mark,' Dr Marwaha said. -- AFP

Hello to everyone from a delightful early autumn in Melbourne. Sunny, crisp, cool days and browning of leaves as chlorophyll gently departs to take a rest until next spring. What about that green stuff we hear so much about? Well it's a photosynthetic pigment that absorbs red and blue-violet light thereby reflecting green light so plants, including
wheatgrass and other cereals can display their characteristic green colour.The fresh juice squeezed from wheatgrass has been called by some, "liquid sunlight". Since around 1940, this sunlight has been attributed with a plethora of healing powers and properties, many of which I can vouch for and have personally observed using my wheatgrass extract.Take any book about wheatgrass or the cereal grasses (there are many), and chlorophyll
invariably takes pride of place at the head of the healing team. One such book claims therapeutic effectiveness for sinusitis, osteomyelitis, pyorrhea, peritonitis, gastric ulcers, anemia, arteriosclerosis and depression. And then there is the oft quoted American Journal of Surgery (1940) article that recorded 1,200 cases ranging from deep internal infections such as brain abscess, peritonitis and skin disorders had been treated with chlorophyll and were
'discharged as cured'.

Ann Wigmore (1909-94), the lay healer who led the wheatgrass juicing craze back in the 70's, even resorted to using wheatgrass enemas as a means of cleansing the body and her followers pursue the same "treatment" to this day. She also claimed cures for almost everything including cancer. In 1988, the Massachusetts Attorney General sued her for claiming that her
"energy enzyme soup" could cure AIDS. She had earlier received a rap over the knuckles for claiming that fresh wheatgrass juice could reduce or eliminate the need for insulin in diabetics, and could obviate the need for routine immunization in children.

However, this article shows that Ann Wigmore's "soup" may well have been a valid therapy or palliative for some types of cancer. To quote: "the presence of chlorophyll in the human diet has been shown to have beneficial effects, specifically because it is not absorbed. Experiments using Chlorophyllin (CHL), a solubilized form of chlorophyll,
have demonstrated that chlorophyll can help to prevent liver and colon cancers by binding carcinogens commonly associated with these cancers and preventing their absorption by the intestines. So, eating foods containing a lot chlorophyll should be part of a healthy diet, but not because the chlorophyll somehow alleviates anemia. In that chlorophyll, although not absorbed through the gut wall, can prevent some carcinogens entering the systemic
circulation."

There has been substantial scientific research into wheatgrass and other cereal grasses since the 1930s. Most if not all them have been comprehensively analysed, and of all the numerous components detected, chlorophyll led the therapeutic field. The magic molecule was an overnight success, appearing in everything from toothpaste to toilet paper. It became
widely known as a miracle healing agent, a phenomenon that seemed to the layman like green magic and from one molecule, a huge industry developed. Yet, as shown in the above article, and another by messrs W.R. Bidlack and M.S. Meskin in "Nutritional quackery: selling health misinformation," Calif Pharmacist 1989;36:(8):34+, chlorophyll is not absorbed! That is, not through the gut wall and, it follows, much less likely through the skin. It
therefore can not be chlorophyll that brings about the healing processes I describe on my website. Besides, the wheatgrass extract I use contains barely detectable levels of chlorophyll, and that which remains would have very little if any therapeutic value.So I firmly believe that chlorophyll has very little to do with healing. After all, how could my extract be as effective as the dark green, chlorophyll-rich juice from wheatgrass sprouts? Well,
based on numerous clinical observations, I can assure you it is every bit as effective. Why?Well, I believe it is because of the Grass Juice Factor. This appears to be a very resilient molecule or group of molecules that is known to exist in many green plants including wheatgrass. It is a powerful, effective healing agent that somehow stimulates the immune system both topically and systemically. In other words, whereas chlorophyll
degenerates after juicing and is not absorbed, the grass juice factor is both absorbed and retains its stability for years. In other words, although it seems obvious to the chlorophyll healing proponents, I believe they have got it wrong for the following reason.Grass juice factor without chlorophyll will work well as a healing agent. However, because the two substances are inseparable except by degradation of chlorophyll, it is not possible to have
chlorophyll without the grass juice factor also being present. i.e. the factor is always there. Therefore it is the grass juice factor that does the healing.I don't expect to receive a lot of support from the other side of the green fence for this concept. But does it matter? Not really. Wheatgrass works whatever anyone says about it!Dr. Chris Reynolds. M.B.,B.S.

Chlorophyll - its therapeutic place in acute and suppurative disease.
Preliminary report of clinical use and rationale. Gruskin B. Am. J. Surg. Jul 1940;49-55Elimination of bacterial infections relies on two approaches:• destruction of bacteria by administering certain chemical compounds, and/or• building up the body’s resistance to bacteria.

The former approach is generally associated with a number of side-effects such as toxicity and irritability. This paves the
way for other alternatives that have no adverse effects on the body. Chlorophyll is one such alternative that has been studied extensively for its use in treating infections either as a single therapy or in combination with chemical compounds. This paper reviews about 1200 cases ranging from acute infections of the upper respiratory tract to chronic lesions such as skin ulcers, sinuses and fistulae.It has been suggested that chlorophyll inhibits the
destructive actions of the bacterial toxins that destroy the walls of the cells and tissues in the human body. Furthermore, chlorophyll may suppress production of toxins by bacteria.That chlorophyll has an indirect effect on bacteria is suggested by its ability to eliminate the foul odour of infected wounds. This effect has also been noted in cases of ulcerative carcinoma.The safety of chlorophyll is well established and both oral and venous
administration is free of adverse effects.Chlorophyll accentuates healing of open skin wounds, skin grafts and deeper wounds such as fistula, (an abnormal channel between an internal organ and the skin.) It is well tolerated and does not cause any irritation to the skin surface. For deeper wounds liquid chlorophyll can be used for irrigation.According to two ear, nose and throat specialists who reviewed 1000 patients with acute and chronic
sinusitis and rhinitis (e.g. colds, flu, hay fever), a single day’s treatment with chlorophyll packs inserted at the back of the nose cleared the infection in many of them. Chlorophyll was also helpful in clearing infections of the ear. The absence of any kind of toxicity was also noted. The specialists reported, “There is not a single case recorded in which either improvement or cure has not taken place.”A dermatologist noted significant
improvements with the regular application of chlorophyll ointment in patients suffering from various disorders of the skin, particularly varicose leg ulcers.Chlorophyll was also found to be beneficial in treating infections of the rectum and uterine cervix.Conditions such as osteomyelitis (infection and inflammation of the bones), post-operative infections, infections of the brain and other organs associated with formation of pus and bleeding from
the gums have all been treated successfully with chlorophyll alone or in combination with other treatment modalities. Definite improvement in symptoms have been observed in patients suffering from these conditions.The evidence from these reports is convincing and indicates the need for further research to support the widespread use of chlorophyll as a therapeutic option for numerous disorders and conditions.

Efficacy of wheatgrass extract (WE) in the treatment of a variety of conditions in veterinary practice.

By Dr. Chris Reynolds M.B.,B.S.Melbourne,
AustraliaJuly, 2001

Summary

A study of the therapeutic effects of topical wheatgrass extract in a variety of animals was conducted by veterinary surgeons over a twelve month period. In the treatment of open wounds (WE) was considered 98 percent ‘very effective’ or ‘moderately effective’. For
eczema/dermatitis (mainly in dogs) this figure was 92% and the overall rating of (WE) for all conditions (N=110) was again 92 percent.

Methods

19 private veterinary practices from various states in
Australia
and one from
New Zealand
participated. Practitioners were chosen at random and none had prior knowledge of the product. Respondents were given a quantity of (WE) pump-pack sprays and a cream in a neutral base each containing the same concentration of active ingredients. They were asked to apply the compound one to three times a day as considered clinically necessary.

(WE) was used in a broad variety of conditions (Table 1) mainly in horses, cats and dogs. Respondents were asked to complete a questionnaire and state whether they considered the clinical outcome to be “highly effective”, “moderately effective” or “not-effective”.
110 questionnaires, one for each condition treated, were completed and returned. A fee was paid for each report.

Results

Open Wounds

80 percent of assessments for wound healing in all three animal groups were determined “Very effective” with another 18% considered “Moderately effective”. (Fig. 1)

This was an anecdotal trial, but as animals were used for the tests, any placebo effect can safely be ruled out. In addition, the veterinary surgeons had no previous knowledge of the product. Veterinary surgeons, are akin to doctors and by and large conservative and traditionally do not respond enthusiastically to new products. Nevertheless, both during and after the trial, several vets were so
impressed by their observations they requested more product.

The results obtained in this trial equivalent to my own experiences of wound healing in humans. I am continuously amazed by the speed of wound closure and the absence of infection, swelling, pain and bleeding. When dressings are removed after a day or two, almost consistently the dressing is clean, does not stick to the wound and any blood that might have oozed from the wound has been
absorbed.

Conclusions

The results obtained from these studies clearly demonstrate that (WE) has formidable wound-healing properties in animals and validates my own clinical findings in humans. Formal controlled studies are indicated.

Horses

(WE) was reported as highly effective in most of the horses treated. In most cases of wounds and skin repair, veterinary surgeons reported that the healing process was accelerated through the application of (WE). In other words, healing was ‘quicker than
expected’. Chronic wounds, which had not responded to other treatment healed rapidly and completely.

Dogs

Clinical interventions applied to dogs mainly for open wounds and eczema/dermatitis. In the majority of cases, the veterinary surgeons considered (WE) to be ‘Very effective’. The remainder were mainly ‘Moderately effective’ and a few ‘Not effective’.

Some of the veterinary surgeons commented that the inclusion of (WE) could reduce the amount of corticosteroids required for the successful treatment of many of these conditions.

In some dermatitis cases, veterinary surgeons used (WE) as a substitute for corticosteroids and found that the results were unexpectedly successful.

Wheatgrass has been an integral part of Indian culture for thousands of years and is known to have remarkable healing properties. A recent field study has shown some amazing results using it to treat leprosy patients with ulcers.Wheatgrass (not the wheat you see waving in the summer fields, but the
young, fresh sprouts that grow in trays one sees in juice bars), has been an integral part of Indian culture for several thousand years, is used at Hindu ceremonies, and is known to have quite remarkable healing properties. In the 1930’s, wheatgrass and other cereal grass sprouts were found to contain potent growth and fertility factors. Subsequent clinical and laboratory research revealed a host of other therapeutic properties, in particular, wound and
ulcer healing. Just before the wheat seed starts to form is when the herb is at its bioactive best, and the extract distilled from this mix has far higher potency than freshly juiced wheatgrass. I have used such an extract very successfully since 1995 for treating a broad spectrum of conditions, wound healing in particular, on thousands of patients.Quite by chance and with no foreknowledge of the therapeutic properties of the cereal grasses (they can
all heal), the disappearance overnight of a thick scab from a leg ulcer using a cereal-based cream sample opened my mind to the world of natural therapy. The cream also relieved the patient’s pain (it was a diabetic/arterial ulcer, which can be very painful). On closer examination, a thin, but discernible layer of cells had covered the wound surface and appeared to have sealed the wound. Instead of the usual weeping appearance one sees with open wounds,
the surface was perfectly dry. In a moment, this simple observation completely changed my orthodox medical view of the wound healing process.Although leprosy can cause numerous signs and symptoms, my interest mainly lay in the skin manifestations caused largely by damage to peripheral nerves. Patients develop patchy loss of sensation that affects predominantly the hands and feet. Because the skin patches are anaesthetised, the patient all too easily
traumatises the skin but is unaware damage has been done. Once this happens, an ulcer forms which can sometimes last more than 30 years. Repetitive trauma e.g. walking, can also prevent the ulcer healing and, even with protective footwear the wound often becomes indolent. To date, other than surgery which is expensive and has limited success, there is no effective medical treatment available.Wheatgrass spray was used on a patient in Mumbai who had
leprous ulcers on the sole of his foot for 10 years and was also a non-insulin dependent diabetic. Diabetic ulcers can be notoriously difficult to heal so this represented a double challenge for wheatgrass. In just six weeks, the ulcer, present for a year, showed significant signs of healing. After 3 months, the ulcer had almost healed as seen in these photographs.

Throughout treatment the patient walked daily to and from work yet the ulcer continued to heal. According to medical staff this, like the healing, was an exciting observation because even after surgery, the wounds frequently break down again once the patient resumes walking. We then decided to expand our patient base and perform a small pilot
study.Twenty participants with foot ulcers were selected for treatment, and the process was recorded with serial digital photographs. The wheatgrass spray was applied every second day and the wound re-covered. Appropriate medical release forms were signed or marked by all patients and in November, 2008, the study began.As wheatgrass quickly softens the surrounding callus (dead skin), which tends to hold the wound open and prevent healing, calluses
could be easily removed with a scalpel. This also helps promote healing. Often the slough on and around the ulcer, (which can be quite thick), disappeared and revealed the full extent of the ulcer’s surface. Re-covering with new skin can then commence. This usually starts from the edges, but can also develop as small islands of skin on the surface, that coalesce as the healing proceeds.Most people approach wound and ulcer healing in quite a different
way - cleanse the wound, keep it moist, and apply a protective dressing, the main aim being to prevent infection. However, clearly this wasn’t working. To begin with, the exudate (clear liquid or ‘weeping’ on the wound surface contains all the growth and other factors essential for the healing process, but they are simply washed away whenever there is a dressing change. We noticed that wheatgrass in some way ‘resurfaces’ (re-epithelialises) the
wound – usually within 24-48 hours – with a new layer of cells. It is very thin, but sufficient to contain the exudate underneath and prevent bacterial invasion from above. The growth (or healing) factors in the exudate can then do their work unhindered. It also appears they most likely stimulate the local immunity which eliminates unwanted bacteria rather than kill all bacteria. Many live ‘normally’ on the skin and possibly even assist the healing
process. In other words, rather than interfering with the healing process, wheatgrass facilitates it.The 19 trial participants have a combined total of 30 ulcers. One has healed completely, there has been significant healing in 28, and one as yet appears not to have responded. We intend to continue the study for at least six months when we will decide our next step. In due course, the serial photographs of all ulcers will be made available, on the
internet.

Acknowledgements

During my stay in India, I was fortunate enough to have our Pilot Study Coordinator and good friend, Dr. Laxminarayan Vardharajan (Rajan) and Dr. Kamlakar Bhandarkar, Lepra’s Madhya Pradesh ILEP State Coordinator, do a wonderful job of making me feel at home. I thank Lepra India for arranging transport, and presentations to District Leprosy Officers in Khandwa (120 kilometres south of Indore) and to physicians and surgeons at the M. Y. teaching
hospital at Indore that were very well received. These sessions received considerable TV and press coverage which broadcast awareness of Lepra around Madhya Pradesh, a state of 72 million people.I would also like to thank Terry Vasey for getting the ball rolling and LEPRA UK for publishing this article; Dr. P. V. Rhangaradha Rao in Hyderabad for administrative support; Mr. Dominic Usavio, and of course Rajan in Indore, without whose extraordinary
dedication to leprosy sufferers and hard work I would never have found myself in India. There were many others who made my visit so worthwhile.I was warned before I left Australia that India would change me. It has. To the impoverished and stigmatised, living in harsh conditions, my respect and admiration for your spiritual strength, your happy smiles, your friendliness, and above all, your dignity, is immense.

Use of phytostimolin vaginal cream and lavage in cervical dystrophy after dilatation and curettage of the cervix.

Bottino. G. et al. Minerva Ginecol. Mar 1991;43(3):123-5. (View
abstract offsite)A group of Italian doctors in Turin performed a double-blind study on 60 women with vaginal dystrophy using a herbal cream that contained phytostimolin derived from Triticum vulgare - better known as wheatgrass. There were two groups differentiated on whether they had undergone previous surgery or not. The groups showed an overall efficacy of 70% and 90%. The researchers attested to the
"absence of side effects and the good level of tolerance" of the cream they used.

Dr. Chris' comment:

Vaginal dystrophy usually affects menopausal women. A common condition, it is most often due to reduced estrogen levels. It can cause dryness, itching, burning, irritation and sometimes post-coital bleeding due to its effects on the cervix and vaginal wall. It is usually treated with supplemental estrogen which is not always
effective and can cause adverse effects.

Like this research group, I also find wheatgrass Skin Recovery Cream can be effective for this condition. Why would it work? We don't know exactly, but if we look at growth factors and their ability to cause cell regeneration and re-growth, and, knowing that wheatgrass in some way causes rapid regeneration of cells as seen
for example in wound healing, it probably makes sense. Anti-aging remedies don't only work on the skin!

none of the
products presented are a medicine and are not being promoted by us as such. Any information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose any illness. In any case of illness it is highly recommended to contact a qualified medical practitioner.